Certain groups are at greater risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke than others, according to the American Heart Association. Close the Gap is an educational initiative determined to heart health of blacks, Latino Americans and women by educating and empowering these groups.

Close the Gap is offering free blood glucose, blood pressure and BMI screenings at a free health and wellness fair in conjunction with the Donnie McClurkin Perfecting Music Conference, where Dr. Mark Jenkins, a local cardiologist on the board of the American Black Cardiologists Association, will discuss heart disease, risk factors, questions to ask your doctor and tips on how to improve your overall heart health. It’s all happening Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church, 1233 State Highway 66, Garland. For more on the AHA’s outreach to minority populations, read my story here.